Go And Write History

Nottingham Forest first-team coach Julian Darby says Saturday’s trip to Derby County (kick-off 12.15pm) presents the current squad with an opportunity to deliver a day to remember.

Reds supporters still look back fondly on rampant successes such as Forest’s 5-2 win over their near neighbours in December 2010, and Darby says that famous evening can provide inspiration for the class of 2014.

He told Forest Player: “If you go into the canteen at the training ground there is a mural of that game on the wall. Whenever you see it you think back to that fantastic night and remember what an amazing experience it was.

“We did the league double over Derby in 2010-11 and it would be great to do it again. It would obviously boost the morale of everyone at the club from the players to the supporters but it would also be a massive achievement for the city.”

With 16 goals and five sending-offs shared over the last seven meetings between the sides, Darby predicts another action-packed East Midlands contest. And he insists the backing of Forest’s sell-out away allocation could prove crucial.

He said: “Excitement has been building among the squad but we need to stay calm. We need to make sure we concentrate for the first 15-20 minutes when the game will be going at 300mph. It will be a passionate and aggressive game but it is one we’re looking forward to.

“Derby will be backed by a loud and vociferous crowd but whenever I’ve been there with Forest our fans have been absolutely superb. They’ll be singing throughout the game and we’ll certainly hear that magnificent support.”